Hwasun Travel Guide: 8 Must-See Scenic Spots

Looking for an authentic escape into South Korea's pristine nature and rich heritage? Let me introduce you to the stunning Hwasun 8 Scenic Sites (화순8경). Located just a stone's throw from Gwangju, Hwasun County is a treasure trove of dramatic cliffs, ancient temples, and mystical lakes.

While I have personally visited several of these spots, there are still a few on my bucket list. I plan to explore every single one of them and share my journey with you. To give you a taste of what's in store, I recently captured the ethereal beauty of Seryangji Pond—the 8th scenic site—using my drone. Let's dive into these eight incredible destinations!

1. Hwasun Red Cliffs (화순적벽)

Address: San 25-2, Wolsan-ri, Iseo-myeon

Designated as a National Scenic Monument, the Hwasun Red Cliffs got their name because their breathtaking grandeur easily rivals the famous Red Cliffs of China. The contrast between the towering, rugged rock faces and the deep, serene water below creates a truly awe-inspiring landscape that you have to see to believe.

2. Unjusa Temple (운주사)

Address: 91-44, Cheontae-ro, Doam-myeon

Unjusa is shrouded in the fascinating legend of the "1,000 Buddhas and 1,000 Pagodas." Unlike typical Korean temples that follow strict structural layouts, the stone statues and pagodas here are scattered organically across the valley, blending seamlessly with the natural terrain.

Keep an eye out for the famous reclining Buddha (Wabul), which measures roughly 39 feet. Local legend says that if these reclining figures ever stand up, a new world of peace and prosperity will begin.

3. Baegasan Mountain Sky Bridge (백아산 하늘다리)

Address: 1310-56, Baega-ro, Baega-myeon

Perched at an elevation of approximately 2,480 feet, this thrilling mountain suspension bridge connects two massive rock formations: Madangbawi and Jeolteobawi.

The bridge stretches 216 feet long and is 4 feet wide. If you are feeling brave, step onto the reinforced glass observation deck in the center of the bridge for an adrenaline-pumping sensation of walking on air with the valley sprawling beneath your feet!

4. Hwasun Dolmen Site (고인돌 유적지)

Address: 139-2, Hyosan-ri, Dogok-myeon (Dolmen Information Center) / 10, Jibong-gil, Chunyand-myeon (Dolmen Protection Pavilion)

This UNESCO World Heritage Site (designated in 2000) is unique because it is the only dolmen site in Korea where you can examine the actual quarry sites, showing exactly how these prehistoric stone monuments were carved and moved.

Every autumn, this ancient historical site transforms into a colorful wonderland as it hosts the annual Hwasun Dolmen Autumn Flower Festival, featuring millions of blooming chrysanthemums and fall flowers.

My Visit to the Hwasun Dolmen Autumn Flower & Chrysanthemum Festivalblog.naver.com

Hwasun Dolmen Autumn Flower Festival: The Best Family Outing in Jeonnamblog.naver.com

5. Manyeonsan Mountain Royal Azalea Park (만연산 철쭉공원)

Address: 258, Anyangsan-ro, Hwasun-eup

Manyeonsan Mountain Royal Azalea Park: The Stunning Flower Trail from Suman-ri to Anyangsanblog.naver.com

Stretching from Suman-ri all the way to Mount Anyang, this park turns into a sea of vibrant pink every spring. The entire mountainside is blanketed in royal azaleas, creating a dreamlike backdrop for hikers. The park features well-maintained forest trails, wooden observation decks, and a lovely forest playground for families.

6. Gyubongam Hermitage (규봉암)

Address: 40-28, Dowon-gil, Iseo-myeon

Tucked away about 10 miles southeast below the famous Ipseokdae of Mudeungsan Mountain, Gyubongam is a secluded hermitage surrounded by towering columnar joints.

These massive stone pillars, such as Gwangseokdae and Seolbeopdae, frame the temple like natural skyscrapers. The geological formations here are so unique and spectacular that they are designated as a National Scenic Monument.

7. Yeondun-ri Supjeongi (연둔리 숲정이지)

Address: 472-1, Yeondun-ri, Dongbok-myeon

"Supjeongi" is a beautiful, native Korean word that translates to "a forest near a village." This enchanting spot was voted one of the most beautiful village forests in Korea in 2002.

Featuring majestic trees that are over 500 years old, their leafy boughs drape gracefully over the calm waters of Dongbok Lake. It looks exactly like a classical watercolor painting and has been designated a National Heritage Monument.

8. Seryangji Pond (세량지)

Address: 98, Seryang-ri, Hwasun-eup

In 2012, CNN named Seryangji Pond one of the "50 Beautiful Places to Visit in Korea." It is a absolute paradise for photographers, especially in the early spring when the pink mountain cherry blossoms reflect on the glassy, mist-shrouded water at dawn.

While I am still putting together a detailed guide of my recent trip here, I wanted to share a sneak peek of the magical views I captured on my drone!

*The information above has been compiled using the official Hwasun County Tourism Map as a reference.

Author's Final Thoughts

To be honest, discovering that Hwasun had these designated "8 Scenic Sites" was an eye-opener for me as well! Because Hwasun is so close to Gwangju, it has always been my go-to spot for quick weekend getaways and family picnics.

While I have checked off several of these spots, there are still a few hidden corners I need to explore. I'm excited to visit each remaining location one by one and bring you detailed guides, tips, and photos. Stay tuned for more adventures in beautiful Hwasun!